Seth Rollins Reacts To The Shield’s Top Three Are In PWI 500 List: Watch
Pro Wrestling Illustrated is a magazine that’s been around for a long time and talks about professional wrestling. It’s like the Wrestling Observer in some ways, as it also gives out awards and ranks wrestlers every year. They’ve just released their list of the top 500 wrestlers for 2023, and no surprises here, Seth Rollins is at the top. Pro Wrestling Illustrated has a history of making these yearly lists, and they just revealed the one for 2023. But there’s a difference with Pro Wrestling Illustrated’s rankings compared to the Wrestling Observer. PWI’s rankings are more focused on what happens in the wrestling storylines. Today, PWI released its top 500 list for the year, which includes wrestlers from all over the world. This list doesn’t just look at the big wrestling companies; it also includes wrestlers from places like IMPACT (Josh Alexander, #9), MLW (Alexander Hammerstone, #18), NOAH (Kaito Kiyomiya, #29), Dragon Gate (Shun Skywalker, #33), DDT (Kazusada Higuchi, #55), NWA (Tyrus, #58), and AJPW (Kento Miyahara, #68). Seth Rollins, the current WWE World Heavyweight Champion, is at the very top of this list, which is a big deal in his career. He started the year with a big feud against Logan Paul at Wrestlemania, and in May, he became the world champion for the fourth time at Night of Champions. The PWI Top 500 ranks wrestlers from all over the world, not just in WWE. They judge wrestlers based on how well they perform in the ring, their character work, and how much they’ve impacted the wrestling business over the past year. From that point of view, Seth Rollins easily earned the top spot. Seth Rollins also posted a photo on social media of the famous Shield fist, a nod to his past. Here are the top 10 wrestlers from the PWI 500 list: 1. Seth Rollins: The WWE World Heavyweight Champion who has been a big part of Raw in 2023. 2. Roman Reigns: The top attraction in wrestling today and the WWE Universal Champion. 3. Jon Moxley: He might not be a champion, but he’s been working hard in AEW. 4. Gunther: He’s an up-and-coming main-eventer and the longest-reigning WWE Intercontinental Champion. 5. Hijo Del Vikingo: Known for his high-flying and acrobatic style, he’s in the 5th spot. 6. MJF (Maxwell Jacob Friedman): He’s the reigning world champion in AEW, sitting in the 6th position. 7. Kazuchika Okada: He’s in the 7th spot for his work in NJPW and AEW. 8. Orange Cassidy: The international champion of AEW. 9. Josh Alexander: The only wrestler from Impact Wrestling on the list, he’s in the 9th position. 10. Cody Rhodes: He’s seen as the next big star in WWE and is in the 10th spot. He came back strong after a long feud with Seth Rollins in 2022. What do you think about The Shield members topping the list this year? Do you have a favorite moment involving The Shield? Share your thoughts in the comments!
The Rock Says He Is ‘Open For A Match’ Against Roman Reigns At Wrestlemania In Philadelphia
In the world of professional wrestling, few names command as much attention and respect as Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson. A true legend in the business, The Rock has thrilled fans for decades with his electrifying charisma and in-ring prowess. Now, wrestling enthusiasts have reason to be excited once again as The Rock himself has dropped a tantalizing hint about a potential WrestleMania showdown against none other than Roman Reigns. This bombshell revelation has sent shockwaves through the WWE universe, sparking intense speculation and anticipation for what could be an epic clash at WrestleMania in Philadelphia. The Rock’s Remarkable Career Before diving into the exciting prospect of a match against Roman Reigns, let’s take a moment to reflect on the extraordinary career of The Rock. Born into a wrestling family, with his father Rocky Johnson and grandfather Peter Maivia both being wrestling legends, Dwayne Johnson was destined for greatness. He made his WWE (then WWF) debut as Rocky Maivia and quickly became a fan favorite. As The Rock, he transcended the world of wrestling to become a global superstar. His impeccable mic skills and electrifying catchphrases like “If you smell what The Rock is cooking!” endeared him to fans of all ages. The Rock’s wrestling accolades include multiple WWE Championship reigns and unforgettable matches against icons like Stone Cold Steve Austin, Triple H, and John Cena. Roman Reigns: The Tribal Chief On the other side of the ring, we have Roman Reigns, who has solidified his place as the WWE’s top heel (villainous character) in recent years. Reigns, a member of the legendary Anoa’i wrestling family, initially received mixed reactions from fans but has since embraced his role as the “Tribal Chief” and asserted his dominance as the Universal Champion. His character transformation and in-ring skills have earned him the respect of the WWE Universe, albeit with a healthy dose of jeers and boos. The Tease Heard ‘Round the Wrestling World The bombshell dropped during an appearance on “The Pat McAfee Show,” where The Rock was asked about the possibility of a WrestleMania match against Roman Reigns. In response, The Rock tantalizingly remarked, “There’s WrestleMania in Philadelphia,” and followed up with a simple yet profound statement, “I’m open.” These two words sent wrestling fans into a frenzy, as they realized that a dream match between two generations of wrestling icons might be closer to reality than ever before. The Significance of WrestleMania WrestleMania is WWE’s flagship event, often dubbed “The Grandest Stage of Them All.” It’s the Super Bowl of professional wrestling, where the biggest storylines culminate, and iconic moments are created. Held annually, WrestleMania attracts fans from around the world who flock to the host city for a weekend filled with wrestling events, fan interactions, and memorable experiences. The Rock’s willingness to consider a match at WrestleMania 40 in Philadelphia signifies the potential for an unforgettable moment in wrestling history. The prospect of The Rock returning to the ring, possibly against the current Universal Champion Roman Reigns, would undoubtedly generate immense buzz and excitement among wrestling fans. The Deserving Fans In his comments on “The Pat McAfee Show,” The Rock emphasized that the fans “deserve something incredible and unprecedented.” He recognized the passion and dedication of wrestling fans who have supported him and the entire WWE roster throughout the years. The idea of giving the fans an unforgettable match, one that transcends generations and eras, is a sentiment that resonates deeply with The Rock.
John Cena Got The Large Security Team During His India Tour At WWE Superstars Spectacle
John Cena’s return to WWE has been nothing short of electrifying, and his recent appearance in India for WWE Superstars Spectacle added another chapter to his storied career. However, one detail that garnered significant attention was Cena’s large security team accompanying him during the tour. The Unusual Circumstances Surrounding Cena’s Return John Cena’s return to WWE television is significant not only for fans but also within the context of the entertainment industry. His transition from the squared circle to Hollywood has been nothing short of remarkable, making him one of the most sought-after figures in both worlds. Interestingly, the timing of Cena’s return coincided with discussions about the SAG-AFTRA strike. The Screen Actors Guild‐American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA) strike has had a substantial impact on the entertainment industry. While it has disrupted various aspects of show business, it provided an unexpected opportunity for Cena to make his WWE comeback. Unlike Hollywood, WWE operates without a union, which means that Cena can participate in WWE events without facing the same union-related issues that have affected other segments of the entertainment industry. The Role of Cena’s Large Security Team During John Cena’s tour of India for WWE Superstars Spectacle, one detail that couldn’t be ignored was the presence of a “large security team” accompanying the wrestling legend. This security detail was not just for show; they played a crucial role in ensuring Cena’s safety and the smooth execution of his appearance. The presence of a security team of this scale indicates the unique circumstances and potential risks associated with Cena’s return. While WWE is no stranger to providing security for its top stars, the size of Cena’s team reflects the high-profile nature of his return and the need to take extra precautions. Cena’s Wrestling Career Continues Despite his successful career in Hollywood, John Cena has not abandoned his roots in professional wrestling. His return to WWE has been met with enthusiasm from fans around the world. In the WWE Superstar Spectacle event, Cena teamed up with fellow WWE superstar Seth Rollins to take on the formidable team of Imperium, ultimately emerging victorious. This match was a treat for Indian fans who had the opportunity to witness two wrestling legends in action. It showcased Cena’s enduring appeal and wrestling prowess, further cementing his status as one of WWE’s all-time greats. What Lies Ahead for John Cena As John Cena continues his WWE comeback, fans eagerly anticipate his future appearances and matches. His ability to seamlessly transition between the worlds of wrestling and entertainment remains a testament to his versatility and charisma. While the large security team accompanying him in India may have been a precautionary measure, it also underscores the significance of his return to WWE and the global impact of his presence in the wrestling world.
Where Is Jade Cargill Likely To Be Headed For WWE Raw, NXT Or Smackdown?
Jade Cargill, one of the rising stars in the world of professional wrestling, has been making headlines recently, and the rumor mill is buzzing with speculation about her potential move to WWE. As her contract with AEW (All Elite Wrestling) nears its end, wrestling fans are eager to learn where she might land within WWE’s vast landscape. Will she start her WWE journey on Raw, NXT, or SmackDown? Let’s delve into the possibilities. Jade Cargill’s Background Before we explore her likely WWE destination, it’s essential to understand Cargill’s background and her journey in the wrestling world. Cargill burst onto the scene in AEW, quickly making a name for herself with her athleticism, charisma, and undeniable star power. Her wrestling career began just over two years ago, making her a relatively fresh face in the industry. The Typical Path to WWE: NXT Traditionally, when a new talent joins WWE, they go through a developmental phase in NXT. This allows them to adapt to WWE’s style, enhance their in-ring skills, and acclimate to the rigorous demands of the company. NXT has proven to be a valuable training ground for future WWE stars, and many notable superstars, including Roman Reigns, Seth Rollins, and Becky Lynch, honed their craft there before ascending to the main roster. The Main Roster Leap However, recent reports suggest that Jade Cargill’s journey might not follow the conventional path. There’s speculation that Cargill could skip NXT altogether and make her WWE debut directly on the main roster, competing on either Raw or SmackDown. This potential move raises several intriguing questions and considerations. The WWE Deal and Contract Status As of now, the details of Jade Cargill’s WWE deal remain shrouded in mystery. Her contract with AEW is set to expire imminently, and while there were discussions about an extension, no agreement was reached. This means that Cargill is on the cusp of becoming a free agent, allowing her to sign with any wrestling promotion of her choosing. The Main Roster Appeal One of the key factors driving the speculation about Cargill’s main roster debut is the financial aspect. Reports indicate that if she were to sign with WWE, her earnings would likely surpass what talent typically makes in WWE NXT. This financial incentive suggests that WWE views her as a valuable addition to either Raw or SmackDown. The Unique Skill Set and Potential Jade Cargill possesses a star look, tremendous athleticism, and undeniable charisma. While her wrestling experience is relatively limited, WWE has a history of bringing in talents with the potential for greatness and providing them with opportunities to thrive. Good workers on the main roster often play a crucial role in making less experienced but marketable talents shine. The Future Beyond Wrestling Beyond her wrestling aspirations, Cargill has expressed a desire to explore other avenues, including acting. WWE’s main roster exposure can significantly enhance her chances of breaking into the world of entertainment. With its vast viewership and global reach, WWE provides a platform to boost her profile in the entertainment industry. Awaiting the Next Move As Jade Cargill’s AEW contract expiration looms, the wrestling world eagerly anticipates her next move. Will she take the traditional path through NXT to refine her skills, or will WWE fast-track her to the main roster due to her star potential? Wrestling fans are on the edge of their seats, ready to witness where and how Jade Cargill will make her mark in WWE.
3 Early Opponents For Roman Reigns At WWE Crown Jewel 2023
WWE Crown Jewel 2023 is rapidly approaching, and with it comes the much-anticipated return of Roman Reigns. The Tribal Chief has been conspicuously absent from WWE programming since his dramatic victory over Jey Uso at SummerSlam. Now, the wrestling world is buzzing with speculation about who might step up to challenge Reigns in his comeback match at this grand event. Let’s delve into the potential opponents that could collide with the Universal Champion at Crown Jewel. 1. Bad Bunny: A Musician’s Bold Challenge Grammy Award-winning musician Bad Bunny made quite an impression on the WWE Universe with his remarkable in-ring debut at WrestleMania 37 in 2021. Since then, he’s expressed a keen interest in pursuing a major wrestling career. In a recent interview with Vanity Fair, Bad Bunny threw down the gauntlet, declaring, “My plan is to take the title from Roman Reigns.” While Bad Bunny may not have extensive wrestling experience, his passion for the sport and his dedication to delivering entertaining performances have been undeniable. The prospect of a high-profile showdown between the charismatic musician and the dominant Universal Champion is tantalizing. WWE has a history of cross-promotional matches, and a Reigns vs. Bad Bunny clash could captivate a global audience. 2. LA Knight: The Rising Star on the Big Stage LA Knight has been making waves on the WWE main roster, and his feud with The Miz has garnered significant attention. Their rivalry escalated to a climactic encounter at WWE Payback, with none other than John Cena serving as the special guest referee. Knight emerged victorious, further solidifying his status as a formidable force in WWE. With his magnetic charisma, impressive in-ring skills, and microphone prowess, LA Knight has all the makings of a top-tier WWE Superstar. A collision with Roman Reigns at Crown Jewel could be the defining moment of his career and a potential show-stealer. Knight’s no-nonsense attitude and unapologetic persona make him an intriguing opponent for the Tribal Chief. 3. The Return of Randy Orton or Brock Lesnar: Legends Reawakened WWE thrives on surprises and nostalgia, often bringing back legendary figures for marquee events. Roman Reigns might find himself facing a returning legend at Crown Jewel. Two names that instantly come to mind are Randy Orton and Brock Lesnar. Randy Orton, a multi-time world champion and one of WWE’s most iconic Superstars, could make a spectacular return to challenge Reigns. Orton’s cunning mind games and RKO out of nowhere have bedeviled countless opponents, and a clash with Reigns would be a dream match for WWE fans. Brock Lesnar, the Beast Incarnate, is another colossal figure who could storm back into WWE and set his sights on the Universal Championship. Lesnar’s raw power, unmatched athleticism, and sheer presence would create an electrifying atmosphere at Crown Jewel. The return of either Orton or Lesnar would undoubtedly elevate the event to a whole new level, providing fans with a dream matchup they never knew they needed. As the countdown to WWE Crown Jewel 2023 continues, the speculation surrounding Roman Reigns’ opponent intensifies. Whether it’s a music sensation like Bad Bunny, the emerging star LA Knight, or a legendary figure like Randy Orton or Brock Lesnar, one thing is certain: the clash of titans at Crown Jewel promises to be an unforgettable spectacle in the world of professional wrestling. Wrestling aficionados worldwide eagerly await the moment when the Tribal Chief makes his triumphant return to the squared circle.
Roman Reigns Will Make His In-Return In Saudi Arabia At WWE Crown Jewel 2023
WWE fans worldwide, brace yourselves for the return of the Tribal Chief, Roman Reigns. The wrestling universe is buzzing with anticipation as one of the most dominant and enigmatic figures in sports entertainment is slated to make his comeback on the grand stage of WWE Crown Jewel in Saudi Arabia on Saturday, November 4, 2023. Dave Meltzer, the renowned wrestling journalist, confirmed this monumental news in the Wrestling Observer Newsletter, sending shockwaves of excitement throughout the wrestling community. Reigns’ return promises to be an electrifying moment in WWE history and a defining chapter in his illustrious career. The Crown Jewel event, known for its larger-than-life matchups and jaw-dropping spectacles, will serve as the battleground for Reigns’ return to in-ring competition. This announcement has ignited a fervor of speculation and anticipation about the potential opponents and storylines that await the Tribal Chief upon his return. Roman Reigns, who has been at the forefront of WWE’s main event scene and is the reigning Undisputed WWE Universal Champion, last graced the WWE Universe with his presence at SummerSlam. In a riveting Tribal Combat match, Reigns successfully defended his Universal Championship against his cousin, Jey Uso. The encounter was filled with emotional intensity and familial drama, as Jey came agonizingly close to dethroning Reigns until a shocking twist involving Jey’s twin brother, Jimmy Uso, altered the course of the match. In the aftermath of SummerSlam, significant developments have taken place in the WWE landscape. Jey Uso made a seismic move by seemingly “quitting” SmackDown and making the transition to the Raw roster. This move has raised intriguing questions about the future of The Bloodline, the faction led by Reigns, and the implications of Jey’s shift to a different brand. WWE has alluded to SmackDown receiving “trade compensation” for Jey Uso’s move to Raw, adding further intrigue to the storyline. Moreover, Jimmy Uso, who has been determined to regain his place within The Bloodline, faced formidable opposition in the form of AJ Styles. Styles defeated Jimmy on a recent episode of SmackDown, and the aftermath of the match witnessed The Judgment Day, a faction that has been actively recruiting Jey Uso, making a profound impact by targeting Styles and signaling potential unrest within The Bloodline’s ranks. As Roman Reigns gears up for his return, WWE fans are abuzz with speculation about what lies ahead for the Tribal Chief and the Undisputed WWE Universal Championship. The Crown Jewel event has a storied history of delivering unforgettable moments and iconic clashes, and Reigns’ comeback promises to be no exception. With his magnetic charisma, unparalleled in-ring prowess, and dominance over the WWE landscape, Roman Reigns is set to captivate the WWE Universe once more at Crown Jewel 2023. Wrestling enthusiasts across the globe will be tuning in to witness the resumption of Reigns’ reign of supremacy and the unfolding of new chapters in his ongoing saga as the Tribal Chief.
Kevin Holland Claims He’s Not Interested In Pursuing Championship Bouts Anytime Soon
It seems UFC welterweight contender Kevin Holland won’t be calling for a title shot in the near future. ‘Trailblazer’ recently discussed his future career plans and claimed he only wants the paydays to keep coming. Kevin Holland is booked to face Jack Della Maddalena at Noche UFC this weekend. The UFC’s Mexican Independence Day special event will occur at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas on September 16. Alexa Grasso will defend her women’s flyweight title against Valentina Shevchenko in the headliner, marking a rare occasion when a Fight Night event is highlighted by a championship fight. During his recent Noche UFC media day appearance, Kevin Holland was asked why he wasn’t calling for a title shot. Outlining the welterweight title picture, the reporters were quite insistent on getting their answer. However, ‘Trailblazer’ was least interested in entertaining them and firmly dismissed the chances of him fighting for the title. The No.13-ranked welterweight contender firmly iterated that he’s keener on making money than winning a belt. Describing how much he loves being active, Holland stated that he’s only looking for entertaining fights against world-class opponents. Expressing his vexation at being pressed about a championship shout, Kevin Holland retorted by asking reporters why they were so perplexed by his decision. Kevin Holland is currently riding an incredible two-fight win streak. He secured two back-to-back stoppages over Michael Chiesa and Santiago Ponzinibbio. While Holland submitted Chiesa in the first round at UFC 291, he third-round KO’d Ponzinibbio at UFC 287. With two consecutive stoppage victories going into his next fight, Holland is undoubtedly confident of extending his win streak. However, he revealed that his secret lies in telling himself that he lost the two previous fights. He claimed that he maintains his mentality by always looking to redeem himself.
3 Matches That Can Be Added In Tonight’s Episode Of WWE Smackdown – 15th September 2023
The much-anticipated episode of WWE Friday Night SmackDown is set to air live tonight from the Ball Arena in Denver, Colorado. WWE fans are waiting for the first SmackDown under the TKO takeover. WWE SmackDown already have a match of LA Knight and The Miz on the list. John Cena is the special referee of this match. The WWE Universe is buzzing with anticipation that Cena might interject in the Knight-Miz showdown to serve Miz a taste of his own medicine, thus marking an end to a feud that has spanned over a decade. Such an intervention would solidify LA Knight’s standing in the WWE roster, especially if he joins forces with Cena in subsequent tag team bouts. Moreover, there’s additional speculation around the corner. Given the heightened tensions and old scores to settle, it’s entirely possible that fans could witness a one-on-one showdown between John Cena and The Miz on an upcoming episode of WWE SmackDown. Such a match would surely be a marquee event, reigniting old rivalries and promising an electrifying performance from both superstars. As the air crackled with anticipation last week on SmackDown, Damian Priest and Finn Balor, joined by the young dynamo Dominik Mysterio, made a bold attempt to seize control of SmackDown. However, their ambitions were met with resistance from the imposing Bobby Lashley and the energetic duo of the Street Profits. Besides this, the Street Profits are set to showcase their prowess in what promises to be an exhilarating tag team match on September 15th’s edition of WWE SmackDown. Given the current landscape, their match could be a turning point, potentially setting the tone for the bigger faction war that seems to be on the horizon. Their potential opponents remain a mystery. But with the heightened tensions and alliances being formed, it wouldn’t be surprising to see them face off against any member of the rapidly forming factions. Whether it’s a direct challenge from the likes of Damian Priest, Finn Balor, or even a wildcard entry from another budding group, this match is bound to be a game-changer in the ongoing power struggle. Fans are eagerly waiting to see if The Street Profits can leverage this opportunity to cement their position on SmackDown or if another faction will emerge triumphant, signalling a shift in the balance of power on Friday nights. Whatever the outcome, the WWE Universe is in for a treat as the drama unfolds. Jimmy Uso’s recent ambitions to reaffirm his position within The Bloodline faced a significant setback last week when he failed to clinch a victory against “The Phenomenal One” AJ Styles. So, as the bell rings tonight, AJ Styles will step into the squared circle not just for personal redemption but to prove that he remains a formidable force in WWE. Whether he faces Solo Sikoa, riding high on last week’s successes, or Jimmy Uso, desperate for vindication and a place back in The Bloodline, it’s guaranteed to be an explosive encounter. Wrapping things up, fans from India and around the world have several viewing options for this power-packed episode of Friday Night SmackDown. The show broadcasts live every Saturday Morning at 5.30 AM on Sony Ten 1 and Sony Ten 1 HD. WWE premium subscribers can catch the live action on the WWE Network. And for those who don’t have a premium subscription, there are multiple alternatives. Platforms like Sony Liv, Jio TV, and Airtel TV will be streaming the event for free. Moreover, for fans who prefer Hindi commentary, Sony Ten 3 will exclusively telecast the show in Hindi.
Breaking: Derek Brunson Wants To Fight Jake Paul After Being Released From The UFC
Derek Brunson has made Jake Paul his next target after being released from the UFC. The perennial middleweight contender recently sent the MMA community into a frenzy after announcing his exit from the promotion. While the reasons behind him leaving the UFC are unknown, it’s believed that the parting was mutually agreed upon. Soon after reports of his UFC exit surfaced, Brunson took to social media to call out Jake Paul. With the intention of facing the YouTuber-turned-boxer in the squared circle, Brunson reminded Paul of an earlier call-out. It seems ‘The Problem Child’ was keen on fighting Derek Brunson in 2021 and even asked Dana White for permission. While the bout never materialized, ‘The One’ seemingly still remembers Paul’s challenge. The former UFC middleweight tweeted screenshots of their 2021 exchange and expressed his desire to make the fight happen. Now that Brunson is no longer on the UFC roster, he doesn’t have any contractual obligations hindering him. While Jake Paul is yet to respond, it’s quite possible that fans will get to see Derek Brunson put on a pair of boxing gloves. Given the YouTuber’s reputation for fighting retired MMA fighters, a Paul vs. Brunson boxing match is certainly a possibility. However, Jake Paul recently went the distance in the squared circle against Nate Diaz. While ‘The Problem Child’ emerged victorious via unanimous decision, he may need some recovery time before taking on a new opponent. Needless to say, Derek Brunson is also a larger and heavier opponent than the Stockton slugger. Derek Brunson was undoubtedly among the most popular middleweight contenders in the UFC. He was known for his personality as much as his fighting skills and was among the most entertaining fighters. As of now, only time will tell if Jake Paul and Derek Brunson face off in the boxing ring.
Breaking: Derek Brunson Parts Ways With The UFC After 11 Years
It was recently announced that Derek Brunson is no longer a part of the UFC. Due to unknown reasons, the long-time middleweight contender and the promotion have mutually agreed to part ways. Brunson’s manager, Ali Abdelaziz, confirmed the news and later officially reported by ESPN and MMA Fighting. Derek Brunson spent 11 years in the world’s premier MMA promotion and had made 21 outings in the octagon. ‘The One’ was widely known for his spectacular fighting style and his one-of-a-kind persona that made him an instant fan favorite. Brunson’s UFC run saw him rack up an impressive 14-7 record, with two separate five-fight win streaks that nearly earned him a championship opportunity. While Derek Brunson was slated to fight Roman Dolidze at UFC 295 in November, that bout has now been scrapped. Prior to that, the North Carolina native was on a two-fight losing slide. He suffered a second-round knockout loss to Dricus Du Plessis at UFC 285 after being KO’d in the second screen by Jared Cannonier at UFC 271. While it’s unclear why he pulled out of UFC 295, many believe that to be the reason behind his release. However, there has been no official communication on that matter so far. During his 11-year stint in the UFC, Brunson faced high-profile opponents like Israel Adesanya, Anderson Silva, Yoel Romero, and Lyoto Machida. Ali Abdelaziz addressed Brunson’s exit and claimed his client is grateful for the opportunities afforded to him over the years. He added that Derek Brunson would be looking for new opportunities in other promotions as a light heavyweight. Abdelaziz also thanked the UFC for their platform and admitted that it helped shape Brunson into a better fighter. However, it was time for the 39-year-old to move on.